How to Treat ADHD
Many people suffering from ADHD are able to get relief from medication. Stimulants, like amphetamine and methylphenidate, increase and regulate levels of certain chemicals in the brain.
Counseling can help you deal with the problems that ADHD creates at school, work and in relationships. Therapy can also teach family members how to care for their loved ones.
Medications
Many children and adults with ADHD benefit from medications to aid in their ability to concentrate, control impulses and plan ahead. These psychostimulants appear to increase and balance levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters. They can also lessen the symptoms of ADHD in a short period of time.
There are several different kinds of stimulants approved to treat ADHD, including amphetamines (Dexedrine), dextroamphetamine-amfetamines (Adderall XR, Mydayis and Vyvanse) and methylphenidates (Concerta and Ritalin). Certain drugs have additional ingredients that suppress appetite and encourage sleep. These medications can trigger many adverse effects, including weight loss and stomach upset, insomnia and weight loss. It's important to discuss all of these with your doctor prior to starting treatment.
For treating add who suffer from co-occurring ADHD and substance use disorders, the chance of using stimulant medication is higher than for people who don't suffer from mental illness. It is crucial to work with your healthcare provider to determine the characteristics and requirements of the various extended release stimulant preparations. It can be beneficial to chart the effects of the medication on your daily activities so that you and your healthcare provider can make any necessary adjustments.
Adults can be treated with antidepressants and Wellbutrin is a drug that includes bupropion. These medications target two neurotransmitters within the brain, norepinephrine and dopamine, which can boost concentration. These medications could be a viable option when stimulants aren't working or aren't working or if you have a history of drug abuse.
Non-stimulant medication is also available to treat ADHD in adults. However, they are not as common as stimulants. They tend to carry a lower risk of side effects such as agitation or insomnia, however all medications have risks. FDA-approved nonstimulant ADHD medication includes atomoxetine, (Strattera) Intuniv (guanfacine), Kapvay, (clonidine) the XR and Qelbree.
Therapy can help you or your child learn techniques to deal with the symptoms of ADHD and how to manage anger, stress and frustration. Therapists can also help you to set realistic goals and stick to them, improve your ability to focus and control the impulsive behavior, and build more harmonious relationships. BetterHelp, an online service connects you with licensed, reputable therapy professionals who can assist with ADHD as well as other conditions such as anxiety or depression.
Counseling
Counseling services can assist you in managing ADHD symptoms and lead an enjoyable and fulfilling adult life. These services include psychological counseling (psychotherapy), education about the disorder and learning techniques to become more successful. CBT is a standard treatment for ADHD that can be combined with medications. CBT helps you change negative thinking patterns and behaviors that cause problems in your daily life. It can also help improve your memory, focus and mood.
You may need marriage counseling or family therapy in the event that your ADHD symptoms impact your relationships. Your therapist will teach you how to improve your communication skills and problem solving. Family members can learn to assist you. CBT can also improve your self-esteem and boost your organizational skills, making you feel more confident about yourself. Talkspace is a great option if you are having trouble finding a therapist. The online platform provides subscription-based mental health care that includes therapy for ADHD and other conditions. You can communicate with your therapy therapist via video, audio or text messages. The company offers a monthly subscription with unlimited messages and a guarantee of a response from your therapist 5 every day.
The management of your ADHD requires patience and persistence. If you're having a hard recalling appointments or meeting deadlines, you can set reminders on your phone or computer. If you're not able to manage your symptoms, talk with your physician about medications or other treatment options.
It's crucial to find a therapist who recognizes the particular challenges you face with ADHD. Choose a therapist with years of experience treating adults with ADHD and one you can trust. A good therapist should have a compassionate, nonjudgmental attitude and will listen to your concerns. Avoid any therapist who doesn't make eye contact or listens to you with a keen ear.
The National Association of Attention Deficit Disorders offers many resources to adults with ADHD. The website has educational materials as well as support groups, webinars, and classes. There is also an index of specialists who specialize in the condition.
Self-help
Many people suffering from ADHD can make positive changes to their daily routine, learn how to use their strengths, and create strategies to manage their symptoms. These abilities can help them work more efficiently, maintain organization, and interact better with others. Certain of these strategies may also aid in reducing stress levels and increase a person's sense of self-worth. These self-help services do not provide quick fixes, but they can aid in reducing some of the more difficult aspects of ADHD.
Psychological counseling is a typical method of treatment for adults suffering from ADHD. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can be utilized to help patients understand and modify unhelpful thoughts and behaviors. It can also address other mental health conditions such as depression and addiction to drugs. Family and marital counseling can help family members cope with the difficulties of living with ADHD.
CBT is a successful treatment for ADHD in adults that can be used along with medication. It teaches patients to recognize and confront negative thoughts, which could include all-or-nothing thinking, focusing on mistakes, and downplaying achievements. These behaviors can lead to impulsive and procrastination behaviors as well as issues with interpersonal relationships. CBT can help patients develop coping skills, such as goal setting, planning and organizational skills.
Other methods to deal with adult ADHD include keeping a schedule and working out. Sleeping enough can help increase focus and decrease irritability. Meditation practice can increase impulse control and emotional regulation. Recent research showed that a cognitive behavioral approach combining mindfulness meditation training CBT, interpersonal psychotherapy and mindfulness helped to reduce ADHD symptoms.
It is crucial to keep in mind that ADHD can affect all aspects of your life including your personal and professional relationships. It can cause issues with school, finances, work, and family. It can be challenging to maintain a sense of self-worth. It can also result in chronic stress as well as mood disorders, anxiety disorders and sleep problems. These problems can worsen your ADHD symptoms and impact your family, friendships, and relationships. You can seek out a therapist who has ADHD expertise to assist you with these issues.
Support groups
A support group is a great way to connect with other people who have ADHD. These groups offer many sources of information and advice from people who have lived with ADHD for a long time. They can also provide emotional assistance. There are many support groups run by professional counselors who specialize in treating ADHD. Some are run by volunteers. There are virtual and online support groups.
When selecting a support organization, it's important to find one that is secure and reliable. Search for accounts on social media that have been validated by an organization. It is best to choose social media accounts that are affiliated with larger organizations that you trust. It is also crucial to know if the group is led by peers or professionally-facilitated. Although peer-led groups are effective however, they may not have the resources or expertise required to solve complex issues and challenges. A professional facilitator can provide direction, structure, and knowledge that can improve the overall quality of the group.
Some support groups provide a variety of activities and events, such as meetings, workshops, webinars, and coaching services. In addition to providing support, these groups can also provide useful information about medications and treatments for ADHD. Many of these groups also have a list of local ADHD experts. If you're seeking a particular type of support you could also consider finding a group focused on your interests. There are groups for parents of ADHD children or adults who have ADD/ADHD.
You can also talk with your family and friends about the diagnosis. It is also advisable to inform your co-workers and supervisors about your condition. This will make them aware of your specific needs and make it easier for them to assist you at school or at work. You may also request for them to accommodate your needs by allowing you more time to complete certain tasks. This is a significant step to strengthen your relationships with people closest to you. Always consult a qualified health professional to get the most accurate information.